Study: Sleep-Deprived Teen Drivers More Likely to Engage in Risky Behaviors

FRESNO, Calif. (KMJ) — Sleep-deprived teen drivers are more likely to engage in risky behaviors.

The CDC reports in a survey of more than 50,000 high school students, those who got fewer than 7 hours of sleep, were more likely to drink and drive, text behind the wheel, or fail to use seatbelts.

Drowsy driving can be an issue for a motorist at any age, but researchers say it’s even worse for teens.

The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adolescents get between 8 and 10 hours of sleep each night.